1 The arch is one of the most important structural developments in the history of architecture. An arch connects two sides of an opening with a graceful curve on top. This curve can handle a great amount of weight, called “load,” without breaking.
2 Building an arch takes several steps. First, a wooden frame is made in the proper shape to support the construction of the arch. The frame is placed on the two pillars or sides of the opening. Then, the wedged stones, or voussoirs (voo-SWARS), are stacked tightly along the frame. The voussoir placed at the very top of the arch is the keystone. Once the keystone is in position, the entire arch locks into place. Even when the wooden frame is removed, the arch remains strong. Stone arches that have lasted for centuries would collapse if the keystone were removed. The keystone is the one piece that is critical to the success of the whole structure.
Question
The article “Keystones” explains that in architecture, a keystone is “the one piece that is critical to the success of the whole structure."
How can a person be like a keystone in a family, career, or community?
Write a TWO paragraph response that explains how someone performing a specific job or role is important to the success of all. To support your ideas, use information from the article, your own examples, or both.
In a family, a person can be like a keystone by taking on the role of a caregiver or nurturer. Just like how the keystone in an arch supports the entire structure, a caregiver supports the emotional well-being and stability of the family. They provide love, care, and guidance to each family member, helping them develop a sense of security and belonging. Without a caregiving presence, the family structure can become unstable, causing emotional distress and chaos. Therefore, a person fulfilling the role of a caregiver is critical to the success and harmony of the family, just like a keystone is critical to the strength and stability of an arch.
Similarly, in a career or a workplace setting, a person can be like a keystone by taking on a leadership role. Just like how the keystone locks an arch into place, a leader provides direction, motivation, and guidance to the team, ensuring that everyone is working towards a common goal. A strong leader sets a clear vision, delegates tasks effectively, and inspires others to achieve their best potential. Without a strong leader, a team may lack direction or experience poor coordination, which can result in inefficiency and decreased productivity. Thus, a person performing the role of a leader acts as a keystone, holding the team together, maximizing their potential, and contributing to the overall success of the organization or career field.
Overall, being a keystone in a family, career, or community means fulfilling a significant role that is critical to the success and well-being of all. Whether it's through caregiving in a family or leadership in a workplace, the person in this role provides the necessary support, strength, and guidance that holds everything together and ensures the smooth functioning and progress of the whole structure.
In a family, a person can be like a keystone by assuming the role of a caregiver. Just as the keystone locks all the stones into place in an arch, a caregiver holds the family together, providing support, stability, and love. The caregiver ensures that the family's needs are met, whether it's providing emotional support, managing household responsibilities, or taking care of the children. Without a caregiver, the family structure may collapse, just like an arch without a keystone. The caregiver plays a critical role in the success and well-being of the entire family.
Similarly, in a career or workplace, a person can be like a keystone by taking on a leadership position. A leader guides, motivates, and inspires others towards a common goal, just as a keystone supports and directs the stones around it in an arch. A leader provides guidance, makes important decisions, and coordinates the efforts of the team. Without a strong leader, an organization may lack direction, unity, and purpose, leading to inefficiency and disarray. The leader's presence and influence are essential for the success and growth of the entire team or company. Just like a keystone, a leader holds the structure together and ensures its stability and cohesion.
In the context of a family, career, or community, a person can be like a keystone by playing a vital role that holds everything together and contributes to the overall success of the whole. Just as a keystone is the central stone in an arch that ensures its stability and cohesion, an individual can be the driving force that brings unity and support to their family, career, or community.
In a family, a person can be the keystone by fulfilling the role of a caregiver, providing emotional support, and being a source of stability. They are responsible for maintaining strong bonds and resolving conflicts, just like how the keystone keeps the arch intact. For example, a parent who takes care of the children, manages the household, and nurtures the family's well-being can be considered the keystone of the family. Their role is critical to the success and harmony of the entire family structure.
Similarly, in a career or workplace setting, a person can be the keystone by assuming a leadership position or having a role that directly impacts the overall functioning of the organization. They might be responsible for coordinating different teams, making important decisions, or providing guidance to others. Without their presence, the organization could lack direction, synergy, and productivity. For instance, a project manager who oversees a team's progress and ensures that all tasks are completed on time can be seen as the keystone, guiding the success of the project and the entire team.
In a community, a person can be the keystone by taking on leadership roles, actively participating in community initiatives, or being a source of support and inspiration to others. They contribute to the establishment of a strong community bond and are instrumental in driving positive change and progress. For example, a local community organizer who rallies people together for important causes, fosters a sense of unity, and encourages community engagement acts as the keystone that holds the community together and contributes to its success.
Just like a keystone is indispensable for the survival of an arch, a person's role in a family, career, or community is crucial for the success, growth, and overall well-being of these respective domains.